Sreemangal Train-Tractor Crash; Gateman Suspended

A tractor driver was injured after a collision between a train and a tractor at the Bharaura Tea Garden railway crossing in Sreemangal, Moulvibazar, on Monday (June 1) at around 8:30 am. Allegations have emerged that the gateman assigned to the crossing was absent at the time of the accident.

The injured driver was identified as Abdul Kaiyum Titu, 32, a tractor operator employed at Zareen Tea Garden. Meanwhile, temporary gateman Imrul has been suspended over preliminary allegations of negligence in performing his duties.

According to local sources, Titu was driving a tractor toward Bharaura Tea Garden to transport workers when the vehicle attempted to cross the railway line. At that moment, the Dhaka-bound Kalni Express, traveling from Sylhet, struck the tractor with great force. The tractor was severely damaged, and the driver sustained injuries.

Selim Reza, Deputy General Manager of Ispahani Zareen Tea Garden, said, “As usual, the tractor was heading to the garden to pick up workers when it collided with the Kalni Express. The driver managed to jump from the vehicle and survived, but he was injured. He was first taken to the garden hospital and later to Sreemangal Upazila Health Complex. After receiving primary treatment there, he was referred to Moulvibazar Sadar Hospital for advanced care.”

He further alleged that the accident occurred because the gateman was absent and the crossing barrier had not been lowered. “I am currently at the scene. The gateman’s room remains locked. We have informed the garden authorities and the police. Necessary legal action will be taken,” he added.

Sreemangal Railway Station Master Md. Sakhawat Hossain confirmed the incident at around 11:15 am, stating that a collision had occurred between the Sylhet-to-Dhaka Kalni Express and a tractor at approximately 8:30 am.

However, when asked about allegations regarding the gateman’s absence, the station master said he was unaware of the matter.

Bangladesh Railway Senior Sub-Assistant Engineer Saiful Islam said that temporary gateman Imrul had been suspended following preliminary allegations of negligence. He added that railway authorities have formed an investigation committee to determine the exact cause of the accident, and further action will be taken based on the findings.

He also noted that the gateman could not be located after the incident. Referring to the potential severity of the situation, he said, “Had the tractor become stuck on the railway track, a major train disaster could have occurred. Fortunately, there were no fatalities or large-scale damages.”